Commercials–a necessary evil

Television isn’t free. We have to pay for what we watch, either through ads, cable or contributions. If the production companies don’t make money, they won’t produce episodes. This is parallel to the fact writers know. I want people to buy my books so my publisher and I make money and I can afford to write and my publisher can affort to print and distribute them. Even knowing that, I’m not much of a commercial fan. Like you, I can usually think of something to do during those breaks–fix popcorn, get a Coke, fold the wash, go to the bathroom, take a shower, and so on. But when I DO watch them, I love some, hate others, and just wonder about a few. Here are my categories. Please add your own.

Commercials that make me laugh or smile: I love many of the Geiko ads: hump day and this little piggy are special favors. I loved the pig shouting, “This little piggy went wee-wee-wee all the way home” and cannot understand how that woman driving can be such a grump.

You probably have figured I like any commercial with an animal in it. My favorite comes from the Superbowl of many years ago, Herding Cats. If you haven’t seen it, try this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_MaJDK3VNE I have to admit, I don’t know what company it’s for but I love it.

Commercials that make me cry: Do you remember the Folger’s commercial where the kids comes home early from college and puts a pot of coffee on? Hallmark card commmercials can make me choke up. A new favorite is a chewing gum commercial in which the father makes an origami swan every time his daughter is sad.

Commercials that frustrate me: Those with no words, just music. I spend much of my time preparing meals, cleaning the kitchen orwashing cloths. If I’m lucky, I can glance at the screen for a few seconds. Many years ago there was a commerical for a winery The scene was a wedding, beautiful people on a beauitful green lawn with beautiful music in the background. All I’m aware of is the music. At some time during that ad, an announcer should say, “Flowers Sisters Wine presents this weeding,” so I kow what company is spending all that money to influence me.

Commercials I hate: Anything with a Zombie in it. Not wanting to sound bigoted, but zombies are gross. I don’t want anything that zombies buy.

Beer commercial which lead college guys to believe if they only drink enough beer, they will be in with the cool guys and women will crowd around him for attention. Yes, gorgeous and worldly women are always impressed by the clever conversation from a drunk college boy who vomits on their shoes.

What about you? What do you like to watch or what commericals make you leave the room?